Kura Takiura - Learning at Christchurch City Libraries
LAUNCHING IN FEBRUARY 2026
Our programmes bring literacy-based experiences to life through creativity and exploration. Interwoven with our bicultural service philosophy, each session connects ākonga to the library as a place of discovery and connection.
Featured
Discover our cultural and history sessions
Get to know the library
Explore creative technology
Self-directed visits and activities
What to know before you book
Programme information, including content, recommended year levels, and duration, is correct at the time of publication. Session times are indicative and may vary depending on staffing, the library space, and the content covered.
Bookings must be made in advance and are subject to staff and space availability. Teachers and accompanying adults are responsible for supervising students during the visit.
Christchurch City Libraries may cancel or reschedule sessions if necessary and will notify teachers as soon as possible. Each visit will cover the programme selected at the time of booking.
Download the Kura Takiura programmes available for your class [PDF]
Risk Management Form for visiting classes. [PDF]
Imagination Station is an independent charity which operates from Tūranga. Contact Imagination Station to enquire about Lego based activities.
Any Questions
Free, online chat service that helps ākonga build information literacy skills while guiding them to quality, trusted online resources.
National Library Services to Schools’ vision is that young people of Aotearoa New Zealand thrive as curious, motivated, and skilled learners and readers. Learn more about their work.
FAQ
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Self‑guided visits allow a class to explore the library at their own pace. We ask that kaiako and supervising adults remain with their ākonga at all times and contact the library before their visit as a courtesy.
Groups can explore exhibitions at Tūranga and interact with activities such as the BookBots Challenge or scavenger hunts.
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Most Kura Takiura sessions in libraries are free of charge.
Some creative technology sessions (e.g., Crafting Empathy, Podcasting Essentials, Creative Design Workshop, Miniature Maker and Coding Creation) may have funding available for schools through GCSN - Greater Christchurch Schools' Network. Apply directly with GCSN to request funding and enquire about eligibility criteria.
For cultural [Māori, Pasifika, ESOL] programming, there may be resource-related costs.
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Everyone is welcome. For classes new to the library, we recommend starting with ‘Navigating the Library’ session to build confidence and familiarity with the space.
Library cards are not essential to participate in these sessions. We encourage kaiako to invite their ākonga to bring their library card if they plan to issue books before or after their booked session.
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Kaiako can make an inquiry using our website booking form to directly arrange a booking with the selected library. Library kaimahi (staff) will contact the kaiako to arrange and confirm details of the visit. We encourage kaiako to book in advance to secure their preferred date and time, especially for popular sessions.